The AFL debuts of talented young Richmond pair Tom Brown and James Trezise were major positives for the Tigers in their final match of the 2023 season against Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval yesterday.

Both Tiger cubs played in defence and showcased their respective skill sets, most notably impressive composure that belied their inexperience at the game’s highest level.

Brown finished the match with 16 disposals, six contested possessions, six marks, four rebound-50s, six intercepts and 306 metres gained, while Trezise had 17 disposals, with three marks, an equal team-high five tackles, three inside-50s, five rebound-50s, four score involvements, six intercepts, an equal game-high nine one-percenters and 405 metres gained.

Interim Richmond coach Andrew McQualter expressed his delight with the two Tiger debutants during his post-match press conference.

“It was awesome to see . . . I think straight away, particularly early in the game, they just looked like they belonged at the level,” McQualter said.

“I thought they competed really hard.

“It’s a big challenge coming over here to this oval . . . it’s pretty hostile to come and play.

“So, some real optimism there from those two guys.”